Thanks to the newly-promised investment, the zone looks set to employ more than 2,500 people by 2021.

Mr Hopkins said: “Enterprise Zones are showing that our long term economic plan to secure a better future is spreading businesses, jobs and skills training across the country.

“It will be fascinating to see MIRA, 60 years on, developing the kind of ground-breaking technology that is putting Leicestershire and the UK at the forefront of automotive research and development.”

MIRA Ltd chief executive officer George Gillespie said: “We are delighted to be receiving this funding, which will help us to create more jobs within the immediate area and continue to build on the success of the park.

“The funding will also enable us to continue to create a centre of excellence, maintaining our position as the heart of Europe’s automotive research and development community.”

The 1.75 million sq ft MIRA Technology Park was granted Enterprise Zone status in August 2011 and aims to be Europe’s most advanced independent transport technology facility.

Send a story

Advertise

Hinckley's vital and leading online information provider, packed with in-depth local community news, which supports our print publication the Hinckley Times. The website offers high quality editorial focusing on local issues, sport, homes, motors, jobs, entertainment, business and events.